VP/HR – Bahá’ís in Iran

Question for written answer to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 117
Cornelis de Jong (GUE/NGL)

Subject: VP/HR – Bahá’ís in Iran

The recent nuclear agreement and the possible engagement with the Iranian authorities in the coming months is an opportunity for the European Union to address the human rights situation in Iran.

How is the VP/HR envisaging addressing the situation of the rights of religious minorities in Iran and in particular those of the largest non-Muslim minority, the Bahá’ís?

What actions will the VP/HR take to secure the release of the seven Bahá’í leaders who were sentenced to 20 years in jail?

Lastly, what steps can be taken to encourage the Iranian authorities to reframe the draft Charter of Citizens’ Rights released on 26 November 2013, effectively excluding the Bahá’ís from its protection, in such a way as to explicitly guarantee the rights of all the citizens of Iran?